I purchased these as dishes for my cat. I was looking for set of a dishes because we feed her three times a day. Also, I wanted something "appetizer or salad sized" because her portions are not very big.These were perfect. There were six in the box. I use them daily and we run them in the dishwasher quite often. I've had them for a couple of months now and none of them have chipped. They seem much more durable than our actual dishes!I wish they were a little less expensive (since I did buy them as cat dishes) but I think they will last a long time. I would recommend them as great plates for an cocktail party! They do not have a pattern and are pure white -- they would probably make for good little dishes to decorate and give as gifts.